Strengthen Your Brethren

Last weekend, I took a 7-hour journey to watch my son play soccer in another prefecture. As I drove, I had plenty of time to pray and reflect on my life. I asked God to reveal to me the main task He wanted me to do in my life and the word STRENGTHEN came to my heart. God wants to use me to strengthen others around me.

And as I reflected on it, I realised the importance of the word in the Bible. God promises us that He will strengthen us.  “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”  (Isaiah 41:10 NIV).

God also commands us to be strong and to strengthen others. Jesus even prayed for Simon in this way, “But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.” (Luke 22:32 NKJV).

So, how can we be more intentional and strengthen those around us? Who are the ones we can help to strengthen today? Starting with my family, how can I strengthen my children, my spouse, my siblings and my parents? How can I help to strengthen my brothers and sisters in Christ? And how can I strengthen the weak and vulnerable in society? In our neighbourhood, there are many lonely, hurt, discouraged and needy people. How can I be a blessing to them and help to “Strengthen the weak hands and make firm the feeble knees.”  (Isaiah 35:3 ESV).

May God strengthen us today, so that we can strengthen those around us.

Stephan Smithdorff